Wisconsin Turkey Hunting: Tactics for Each Season

Introduction:

Welcome to Find A Hunt, your ultimate guide to hunting strategies and tips in Wisconsin. As passionate hunters, we understand the thrill and excitement of turkey hunting. With each season bringing its unique challenges and opportunities, mastering the tactics for each phase is crucial to becoming a successful hunter. In this article, we will delve into the tactics you need to know for each season of Wisconsin turkey hunting.

Spring Season:

The spring season is undoubtedly the most anticipated time for turkey hunters in Wisconsin. As the woods come alive with the sounds of gobbling toms, it's essential to be well-prepared for the hunt.

a. Scouting: Before the season begins, invest time in scouting the hunting area. Look for fresh signs of turkey activity, such as tracks, droppings, and feathers. Identify roosting areas and strutting zones to better plan your hunt.

b. Calling: Master the art of turkey calling. During the spring, hens are responsive to yelps, clucks, and purrs. Mimicking their sounds can draw in both hens and toms, increasing your chances of a successful hunt.

c. Decoy Placement: Utilize realistic turkey decoys strategically. Toms are often drawn to visual stimuli, especially during the breeding season. Place decoys within shooting range and use them to enhance your calling techniques.

Summer Season:

The summer season may not offer as much hunting opportunity as spring, but it can be a great time for scouting and preparation for the upcoming fall season.

a. Locate Food Sources: Turkeys feed on a variety of foods, including insects, berries, and seeds. Identify their preferred food sources in your hunting area to increase your chances of finding them during the fall season.

b. Practice Calling: Summer is an excellent time to practice your calling skills. Keep your turkey calls handy and try to imitate various turkey vocalizations. Consistent practice will help you sound more natural in the field.

Fall Season:

The fall turkey hunting season in Wisconsin presents a different set of challenges compared to spring. During this time, turkeys are not focused on breeding but are instead forming flocks.

a. Find Flock Patterns: Locate areas with high turkey activity and identify their roosting sites. Turkeys often roost in large trees near open fields or water sources.

b. Scatter and Reassemble: One effective tactic during the fall is to scatter a flock and then reassemble them. This imitates natural flock movement and can draw in curious turkeys looking to regroup.

c. Use Different Calls: During the fall, turkeys make different sounds compared to the spring. Incorporate kee-kees and assembly calls into your repertoire to appeal to the flock's desire to regroup.

Winter Season:

Winter hunting can be challenging, but it can also be rewarding for dedicated hunters.

a. Food is Key: Focus on food sources as turkeys will be searching for available food in winter. Concentrate your efforts near areas with abundant food such as crop fields and oak stands.

b. Be Patient: Winter hunting requires patience, as turkeys tend to move more slowly in the colder weather. Find a good vantage point and be prepared to sit still for extended periods.

Conclusion:

As you embark on your Wisconsin turkey hunting journey, remember that success comes with a combination of skill, knowledge, and dedication. Each season offers unique opportunities and challenges, and understanding the specific tactics required will improve your chances of a fruitful hunt. Happy hunting, and remember to respect nature and wildlife while enjoying your hunting experience. Good luck from the team at Find A Hunt!